Duingraslanden

Duingraslanden, or dune grasslands, are coastal ecosystems characterized by sandy soils, wind-blown sand, and salt spray. They occur on both mobile and stabilized dune systems and are dominated by hardy grasses and herbaceous plants adapted to nutrient-poor, dry conditions.

These habitats are widespread along temperate coastlines, notably the North Sea coastlines of the Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, and the United Kingdom, as well as adjacent Baltic and Atlantic coasts. They form a transitional zone between foredunes and fixed dunes and are shaped by natural disturbance and human land use.

Key plant groups include dune grasses such as marram grass (Ammophila arenaria) and other low-nutrient specialists; among forbs and grasses are species tolerant of salt spray and drought. The community supports a diversity of invertebrates and ground-nesting birds, and provides habitat for pollinators.

Duingraslanden face threats from coastal development, intensive tourism, off-road vehicles, and habitat degradation. Invasions by woody shrubs or aggressive grasses can reduce dune mobility and species diversity. Conservation focuses on appropriate grazing or mowing regimes, restoration of natural sand dynamics, and targeted restoration.

Management aims to maintain disturbance regimes that prevent succession to shrubland, restore hydrology, and reconnect habitat fragments. Restoration projects may include reintroduction of native dune grasses, selective grazing, and removal of encroaching vegetation, often within broader coastal defense and biodiversity plans.